Oxyberberine, a novel gut microbiota-mediated metabolite of berberine, possesses superior anti-colitis effect: Impact on intestinal epithelial barrier, gut microbiota profile and TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB pathway

Oxyberberine revokes letrozole-induced polycystic ovarian syndrome and depression-like behavior in female Sprague-Dawley rats

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women, which also negatively perturbs person's psychiatric health. Herein, we investigated the effect of oxyberberine on PCOS- and depression-like phenotypes in female Sprague-Dawley rats. To generate PCOS- and depression-like phenotypes, rats were injected with letrozole (1 mg/kg/day for 21 days) and exposed to 14 days of chronic-unpredictable mild stress (CUMS). We synthesized oxyberberine from its natural parent phytoconstituent i.e., berberine. Rats underwent letrozole + CUMS exposure displayed an increased number of neutrophils in a vaginal smear test indicating a PCOS-like phenotype (i.e., disrupted estrus cycle). Moreover, these rats also showed anhedonia-, depression-, and anxiety-like behaviors in the sucrose-preference test, forced-swimming test, and elevated plus-maze test. Peroral administration of oxyberberine for 21 days, at 50 and 100 mg/kg doses, reversed letrozole + CUMS generated perturbations in rats. The total exploratory behavior in the open field test remained unaffected across the treatment groups. Oxyberberine treatment also restored the organ-weight index of the ovary and uterus and follicular development of the ovary. Systemic and uterine levels of oxyberberine were found to be 0.17-0.80 ng/mL and 1.03-3.62 ng/mL, respectively measured using a liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry assay. Oxyberberine also positively modulated the levels of catalase and malondialdehyde in intestine and spleen, and testosterone and luteinizing hormones in the systematic circulation and CYP17A1, CYP19A1, and SHBG expression in the ovary. These results suggest that oxyberberine improves PCOS- and depression-like phenotypes in rats by modulating testosterone hormone, CYP17A1, CYP19A1, and SHBG enzyme expression in the ovary.

Berberine: An isoquinoline alkaloid targeting the oxidative stress and gut-brain axis in the models of depression

Depression seriously affects people's quality of life, and there is an urgent need to find novel drugs to cure treatment-resistant depression. Berberine (BBR), extracted from Coptis chinensis Franch., Phellodendron bark, Berberis vulgaris, and Berberis petiolaris, could be a potential multi-target drug for depression. To summarize the effects of BBR on depression in terms of in vitro or in vivo experiments, we searched electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Wanfang Database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, from inception until May 2024. Then, we summarize that BBR has indirect antidepressant properties to improve depressive symptoms, manifesting in modulating the gut microbial community, strengthening the intestinal barrier, increasing the abundance of short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, and regulating tryptophan metabolism. BBR also exerts antidepressant-like effects via remodulating nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element pathway, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor-delta. Nevertheless, further clinical trials and more high-quality animal studies are needed to show the actual clinical value of BBR for depression.

Modulatory effects of polyherbal mixture on the immuno-antioxidant capacity and intestinal health of chicks infected with Escherichia coli O78

A total of 180 one-day-old white-feathered broiler chicks were selected and randomly divided into 4 treatments, namely the control group (CON), Escherichia coli groups (E. coli), 2 g/kg polyherbal mixture group (PHM2), and the 4 g/kg polyherbal mixture group (PHM4). The CON and E. coli groups were fed a basal diet, while the PHM2 and PHM4 groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with 2 g/kg and 4 g/kg PHM, respectively. Each group had 3 replicates, with 15 broilers per replicate. On day 17 of the experiment, broilers in the E. coli, PHM2, and PHM4 groups were intraperitoneally injected with 0.8 mL of 1 × 108 CFU/mL of E. coli O78. Broilers in the control group received an equivalent volume of saline. Chicks were euthanized 48 h postinjection for collecting serum, liver, spleen, jejunum, ileum, ileal mucosa, and cecal contents. Our results showed that PHM significantly reversed the weight loss and decreased the diarrhea rate and the mortality of chicks caused by E. coli infection (P < 0.05). In the serum of chicks infected with E. coli, PHM significantly enhanced the antioxidant capacity (P < 0.05), increased the levels of immunoglobulins and anti-inflammatory cytokines (P < 0.05), and decreased the concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, PHM also promoted the mRNA expression of antioxidant-related genes and decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and apoptosis-related genes in the liver, spleen, jejunum, and ileum (P < 0.05). In addition, PHM repaired the intestinal barrier and injury to further reduce the serum concentrations of d-lactate (DAO) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (P < 0.05). More importantly, PHM significantly regulated the composition of cecal microbiota, especially by up-regulating the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria, including Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Butyricicoccus, and Lactobacillus, and down-regulating the relative abundance of pathogenic bacteria, including Enterococcus, Escherichia, and Shigella (P < 0.05). These beneficial bacteria were significantly positively correlated with antioxidant capacity and intestinal barrier function, while pathogenic bacteria were significantly positively correlated with proinflammatory cytokines (P < 0.05). In conclusion, PHM may be a potential preventive strategy for E. coli-infected poultry, which is closely related to its modulation of gut microbiota.

Nanotechnology-based drug delivery system for targeted therapy of ulcerative colitis from traditional Chinese medicine: A review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic autoimmune disease and seriously affects the normal life of patients. Conventional therapeutic drugs are difficult to meet clinical needs. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) ingredients could effectively alleviate the symptoms of UC by anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, regulating the gut microbiota, and repairing the colonic epithelial barrier, but their low solubility and bioavailability severely limit their clinical application. Nano-drug delivery systems (NDDS) combined with TCM ingredients is a promising option for treating UC, and they could significantly enhance the stability, solubility, and bioavailability of TCM ingredients. The review describes the anti-UC mechanisms of TCM ingredients, systematically summarizes various kinds of NDDS for TCM ingredients according to different routes of administration, and highlights the advantages of NDDS for TCM ingredients in the treatmentof UC. In addition, we discuss the limitations of existing NDDS for TCM ingredients and the development direction in the future. This review will provide a basis for the future development of anti-UC NDDS for TCM ingredients.

The intestinal barrier: a pivotal role in health, inflammation, and cancer

The intestinal barrier serves as a boundary between the mucosal immune system in the lamina propria and the external environment of the intestinal lumen, which contains a diverse array of microorganisms and ingested environmental factors, including pathogens, food antigens, toxins, and other foreign substances. This barrier has a central role in regulating the controlled interaction between luminal factors and the intestinal immune system. Disruptions of intestinal epithelial cells, which serve as a physical barrier, or the antimicrobial peptides and mucins they produce, which act as a chemical barrier, can lead to a leaky gut. In this state, the intestinal wall is unable to efficiently separate the intestinal flora and luminal contents from the intestinal immune system. The subsequent activation of the immune system has an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease, as well as in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and colorectal cancer. Dysregulated intestinal barrier integrity has also been described in patients with chronic inflammatory diseases outside the gastrointestinal tract, including rheumatoid arthritis and neurodegenerative disorders. Mechanistic studies of barrier dysfunction have revealed that the subsequent local activation and systemic circulation of activated immune cells and the cytokines they secrete, as well as extracellular vesicles, promote proinflammatory processes within and outside the gastrointestinal tract. In this Review, we summarise these findings and highlight several new therapeutic concepts currently being developed that attempt to control inflammatory processes via direct or indirect modulation of intestinal barrier function.

The prospect and underlying mechanisms of Chinese medicine in treating periodontitis

Inflammation represents a critical immune response triggered by cellular activities and inflammatory mediators following tissue damage. It plays a central role in the pathological progression of diverse diseases, including psychiatric disorders, cancer, and immunological conditions, rendering it an essential target for therapeutic intervention. Periodontitis, a prevalent oral inflammatory disease, is a leading cause of tooth loss and poses significant health challenges globally. Traditionally, inflammatory diseases such as periodontitis have been treated with systemic administration of synthetic chemicals. However, recent years have witnessed challenges, including drug resistance and microbial dysbiosis associated with these treatments. In contrast, natural products derived from Chinese medicine offer numerous benefits, such as high safety profiles, minimal side effects, innovative pharmacological mechanisms, ease of extraction, and multiple targets, rendering them viable alternatives to conventional antibiotics for treating inflammatory conditions. Numerous effective anti-inflammatory natural products have been identified in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, and other natural products that exhibit inhibitory effects on inflammation and are potential therapeutic agents. Several studies have confirmed the substantial anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of these compounds. This comprehensive review examines the literature on the anti-inflammatory effects of TCM-derived natural products from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and CNKI, focusing on terms like "inflammation", "periodontitis", "pharmacology", and "traditional Chinese medicine". The analysis systematically summarizes the molecular pharmacology, chemical composition, and biological activities of these compounds in inflammatory responses, alongside their mechanisms of action. This research seeks to deepen understanding of the mechanisms and biological activities of herbal extracts in managing inflammatory diseases, potentially leading to the development of promising new anti-inflammatory drug candidates. Future applications could extend to the treatment of various inflammatory conditions, including periodontitis.

Elevated SPARC Disrupts the Intestinal Barrier Integrity in Crohn's Disease by Interacting with OTUD4 and Activating the MYD88/NF-κB Pathway

Disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier results in increased permeability and is a key factor in the onset and progression of Crohn's disease (CD). The protein SPARC is primarily involved in cell interaction and migration, but its specific role in the intestinal epithelial barrier remains unclear. This study demonstrates that SPARC is significantly overexpressed in both CD patients and murine models of colitis. Furthermore, mice deficient in SPARC exhibits resistance to chemically induced colitis, a phenomenon associated with the modulation of barrier-associated proteins. Mechanistically, it is elucidated that SPARC competitively binds to OTUD4 in conjunction with MYD88, facilitating the translocation of p65 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus and subsequent activation of the p65-MLCK/MLC2 pathway, thereby compromising barrier integrity. Additionally, it is identified that the elevated expression of SPARC in CD is regulated via the METTL3-YTHDF1 axis. These findings indicate that SPARC levels are elevated in patients with CD and in colitis-induced mice, leading to intestinal barrier damage through direct interaction with OTUD4 and subsequent activation of the MYD88/p65/MLCK/MLC2 signaling pathway. Consequently, targeting SPARC or the OTUD4/MYD88/p65/MLCK/MLC2 axis may offer novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying CD and represent a potential therapeutic strategy.

Bacillus subtilis MZ-01 alleviates diarrhea caused by ETEC K88 by reducing inflammation and promoting intestinal health

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Bacillus subtilis supplementation on the health of weaned piglets and whether B. subtilis supplementation can reduce the damage of piglets induced by ETEC K88.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The experiment was designed with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, comprising the control group, B. subtilis (PRO) group, Escherichia coli K88 (ETEC) group, and B. subtilis + ETEC (PRO + ETEC) group. Regardless of the presence of ETEC, the addition of PRO increased the piglets' final body weight, average daily gain, and daily feed intake. Additionally, PRO primarily achieves a reduction in heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) levels, suppresses the expression of NF-κB, TLR4, and MyD88 mRNA in the jejunum and ileum, lowers pro-inflammatory factors in the blood and small intestine, enhances the expression of tight junction proteins in the small intestine, improves the composition of the colonic microbiota, increases colonic short-chain fatty acid contents, thereby alleviating diarrhea and mitigating bodily damage caused by ETEC K88 infection.

CONCLUSION

The addition of B. subtilis MZ-01 alleviated ETEC K88-induced piglet diarrhea by reducing ST levels, decreasing pro-inflammatory factors in the blood and intestine, and enhancing the intestinal barrier and tight junction proteins.

The effects of Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba on Escherichia coli-induced diarrhea in chicken

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of pathogenic bacteria that often causes diarrhea in poultry. While antibiotics can control E. coli-induced diarrhea in chickens, it can lead the ongoing proliferation of antibiotic resistance. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) that effectively protect against and treat chicken diarrhea caused by E. coli are an encouraging alternative. That enhance poultry immunity, curtail antibiotic resistance, and provide a secure, eco-friendly, and efficacious option for the livestock and poultry industry. In this study, the model of chicken diarrhea induced by E. coli was established, and different TCM formulas were used for treatment, and finally the formula with the best effect was screened out. The research also investigated the impact of these formulas on gut microbiota and serum metabolites in chickens, using 16S rRNA sequencing technology and metabolomics. Mass spectrometry technology and network pharmacology were used to analyze the optimal TCM formula corroborated by molecular docking and qPCR for further explore mechanism exploration. The findings indicated that Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba dramatically lowered mortality rates and alleviated pathologic changes in cases of avian E. coli diarrhea (P < 0.05). Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba significantly boosted the abundance of Bacteroidetes (P < 0.05) and mainly enhanced cysteine and methionine metabolic pathways. Moreover, 97 active ingredients in Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba were identified, along with 1425 diarrhea-related targets, primarily enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway. Molecular docking and qPCR revealed that the crucial active ingredients in Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba bonded effectively with disease targets and treated diarrhea by regulating the MAPK signaling pathway. This suggests that Fraxini cortex and Andrographis herba exerts an optimal effect on diarrhea by multi-target and multi-pathway regulation of metabolic pathways and gut microbiota.

Perspectives on Berberine and the Regulation of Gut Microbiota: As an Anti-Inflammatory Agent

Berberine is a promising agent for modulating the intestinal microbiota, playing a crucial role in human health homeostasis. This natural compound promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, and Lactobacillus while reducing harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli. Clinical and preclinical studies demonstrate that Berberine helps regulate T2D and metabolic disorders, improves blood glucose levels during T2D, and reduces lipid profile and chronic inflammation, especially when combined with probiotics. Berberine represents a promising adjuvant therapy for inflammatory diseases, particularly intestinal disorders, due to its multifaceted actions of inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines and pathways during IBS, IBD, and UC and its modulation of gut microbiota and/or enhancement of the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. This review establishes the basis for future treatment protocols with berberine and fully elucidates its mechanisms.

A Hepatic Oxidative Metabolite of Palmatine Ameliorates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis by Regulating Macrophage Polarization Through AMPK/NF-κB Pathway

Palmatine (PAL) and berberine are both classified as protoberberine alkaloids, derived from several traditional Chinese herbs such as Coptis chinensis Franch. and Phellodendron chinense Schneid. These compounds are extensively used in treating dysentery and colitis. PAL is one of the crucial quality markers for these plants in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. A key metabolite of PAL, 8-Oxypalmatine (OPAL), shows favorable anti-inflammatory activity and better safety compared to PAL, though its mechanisms in ulcerative colitis (UC) are not fully understood. This study used a dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis mouse model to explore OPAL's effects. The results indicated that OPAL provided superior therapeutic effects to those of PAL, alleviating colitis symptoms and reducing colon inflammation by modulating pro-inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6) and anti-inflammatory (transforming growth factor-β and interleukin-10) cytokines. Additionally, OPAL helped rebuild the mucus barrier and upregulated tight junction proteins, thereby restoring intestinal integrity. Notably, OPAL inhibited the M1 macrophages infiltration while promoting M2 macrophage distribution in the colon. Its role in fostering M2 polarization and modulating the inflammatory cytokine profile was further confirmed in vitro. Importantly, the anti-inflammatory effects were primarily linked to AMP-activated protein kinase activation, which subsequently inhibited the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway. These findings highlight OPAL as a crucial active metabolite responsible for the therapeutic effects of PAL against UC, emphasizing its potential as a novel treatment for this condition.

Oxyberberine alleviates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier disruption and inflammation in human colonic Caco-2 cells in vitro

Background

Oxyberberine (OBB) is a naturally occurring isoquinoline alkaloid that is believed to possess various health-promoting properties, including anti-fungus, hepatoprotection, anti-inflammation, and anti-intestinal mucositis effects. Despite several studies reporting the health benefits of OBB in treating ulcerative colitis (UC), its specific mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated.

Purpose

This investigation is designed to explore the potential protective efficacy of OBB and the latent mechanism using an in vitro model of UC-like inflammatory intestinal cells.

Methods

Caco-2 cells were pretreated with OBB and subsequently exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), paracellular permeability, and the distribution and expression of tight- and adherent junction proteins were determined to assess barrier integrity. The levels of proinflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), Nrf2, and NF-κB signaling cascade were analyzed via ELISA, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, or Western blotting.

Results

OBB was found to mitigate the effects of LPS on Caco-2 cell monolayers, as evidenced by the improvement in TEER and the decrease in FITC-dextran flux. Moreover, OBB ameliorated the LPS-induced decrease in the distribution and expression of several tight junction markers, including ZO-1, occludin, and E-cadherin. In addition, OBB treatment effectively inhibited LPS-induced increases in ROS, apoptosis, and Keap1 and decreases in Nrf2 and HO-1. LPS-induced elevations in nuclear NF-κB p65 and p-IκBα were suppressed by OBB. In addition, ML385, an antagonist of Nrf2, abolished the protective role of OBB.

Conclusion

OBB has a pronounced beneficial effect on LPS-induced damage to enteral barrier function, and the regulation of the Nrf2/NF-κB pathway is an important mechanism responsible for the protection afforded by OBB.

Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) extract ameliorates intestinal inflammation in diet-induced obese mice by inhibiting the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway

Background

Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) is a dietary plant and a botanical drug with antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the effects of purslane against intestinal-inflammation-associated obesity are yet to be studied. In the present study, we hypothesized that purslane extract could reduce intestinal inflammation associated with metabolic disorder.

Results

Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD, 60% kcal% of fat) for a total duration of 14 weeks to establish an obesity model; further, the treatment group was orally administered purslane extract (200 mg/kg/day) during the last 4 weeks. Then, intestinal tissues were detached from the mice for detecting protein expressions through Western blot and immunohistochemical analyses. Pro-inflammatory cytokines were determined using ELISA kits, whereas the components of purslane extract were detected by ultra performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Chronic oral administration of purslane extract ameliorated colon shortening syndrome and reduced bowel inflammation in HFD-induced obese mice through suppression of the toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway to downregulate TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), Ser32 phosphorylation of NF-κB inhibitor alpha (IκBα), and Ser536 phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 expression levels, thereby inhibiting the pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 levels.

Conclusion

The present study supports the anti-inflammatory potential of purslane extract for modulating bowel inflammation under obesity through inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Shenlian Decoction Ameliorates LPS-Related Inflammation in db/db Mice: Coupling Network Pharmacology With Experimental Verification

Background: Shenlian (SL) decoction, a renowned traditional Chinese formula for diabetes mellitus, has also been employed to treat intestinal disorders. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of SL decoction in regulating blood glucose and intestinal bacteria. Nevertheless, further analysis is required to elucidate the mechanistic link between SL decoction-mediated improvement of intestinal function and treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Firstly, the active ingredients of SL decoction were sourced from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology (TCMSP) database, with putative targets of active ingredients being predicted using the same database. Secondly, the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) and GeneCards databases were employed to screen the aforementioned targets that act on T2DM, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed in accordance with the results. Thirdly, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were conducted using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), which resulted in a comprehensive analysis of the association between SL decoction for the treatment of T2DM and the modulation of intestinal functions. Finally, the effect of the SL decoction on predicted lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-related targets, as well as intestinal function markers, was validated through in vivo experimentation. Results: A total of 36 active ingredients and 145 potential targets of SL decoction were predicted. GO enrichment analysis indicated that the principal biological processes by which the SL decoction acted against T2DM were responses to LPSs, while KEGG enrichment analysis identified the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and toll-like receptor signaling pathway as the key pathways involved. The in vivo experiments showed that SL decoction improved glycolipid metabolism indexes, inflammatory factor levels, and LPS levels in db/db mice. The immunohistochemical results demonstrated that the SL decoction restored the expression of Occludin, Claudin-1, and ZO-1 in the intestine and inhibited the expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MYD88), and NF-κB in both the intestine and pancreas. Furthermore, it may influence the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in feces. Conclusions: This research investigated the multigene pharmacological mechanism of SL decoction against T2DM using network pharmacology and in vivo experiments. SL decoction treatment of T2DM may reverse inflammation by inhibiting LPS-related pathway activation and improving intestinal function.

Research Progress in Ulcerative Colitis: The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Gut Microbiota and Signaling Pathways

Ulcerative colitis (UC), one among other refractory diseases worldwide, has shown an increasing trend of progression to colorectal cancer in recent years. In the treatment of UC, traditional Chinese medicine has demonstrated good efficacy, with a high cure rate, fewer adverse effects, great improvement in the quality of patient survival, and reduction in the tendency of cancerous transformation. It shows promise as a complementary and alternative therapy. This review aims to evaluate and discuss the current research on UC, signaling pathways, and gut microbiota. We also summarized the mechanisms of action of various Chinese medicines (active ingredients or extracts) and herbal formulas, through signaling pathways and gut microbiota, with the expectation that they can provide references and evidence for treating UC and preventing inflammation-associated colorectal cancer by traditional Chinese medicine. We illustrate that multiple signaling pathways, such as TLR4, STAT3, PI3K/Akt, NF-[Formula: see text]B, and Keap1/Nrf2, can be inhibited by Chinese herbal treatments through the combined regulation of signaling pathways and gut microbiota, which can act individually or synergistically to inhibit intestinal inflammatory cell infiltration, attenuate gut oxidative responses, and repair the intestinal barrier.

Transcriptomic Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of Indole Analogues from the Periplaneta americana Extract and Their Therapeutic Effects on Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory disease of the intestinal mucosa, and its incidence is steadily increasing worldwide. As a traditional Chinese medicinal insect, Periplaneta americana has been broadly utilized in clinical practice to treat wound healing. The tryptophan (Trp), tryptamine (Try), and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydrogen-β-carboline-3-carboxylic acid (Thcc) identified from P. americana concentrated ethanol-extract liquid (PACEL) exhibit significant cell proliferation-promoting and anti-inflammatory effects in the treatment of UC, but the mechanism involved remains obscure. Here, a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC mouse model was used to investigate the efficacy of high/low doses of PACEL, Trp, Try, and Thcc. Transcriptome sequencing was employed to detect the gene expression in the mouse intestine. The results showed that high doses of PACEL, Trp, Try, and Thcc could significantly improve weight loss and diarrhea, notably in the PACEL and Trp groups. Transcriptome analysis indicated that statistically changed genes in four treatment groups were specifically enriched in the immune system. Of these, the integrated analysis identified six hub genes (IL1β, CCL4, CXCL5, CXCR2, LCN2, and MMP9) regulated by NF-κB, which were significantly downregulated. This study investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the UC treatment properties of indole analogues from PACEL, potentially through the inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway.

Coptisine alleviates colitis through modulating gut microbiota and inhibiting TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a disease involving the enteric canal which is characterised by chronisch inflammatory reaction. Coptisine (COP), the distinctive component of Coptis chinensis Franch., is famous for its anti-inflammation, antioxidation, anti-bacteria, and anti-cancer. Earlier researches certified that COP is a prospective remedy for colitis, but the mechanism of colitis and the therapeutical target of COP are deficiently elucidated.

AIM OF THIS STUDY

In this follow-up study, we adopted dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-elicited UC model to further elucidate the possible mechanism of COP on UC in mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

COP and the positive drug sulfasalazine (SASP) were administered by oral gavage in DSS-induced colitis mouse model. Oxidative stress, inflammatory cytokines, intestinal barrier permeability, protein expression of the TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and intestinal microbiome structure were assessed.

RESULTS

Among this investigation, our team discovered that COP could mitigate DSS-elicited UC in murines, with prominent amelioration in weight loss, disease activity index, intestinal permeability (serum diamine oxidase and D-lactate), contracted colonal length and histologic alterations. Furthermore, COP greatly lowered the generation of pro-inflammatory factors, malondialdehyde (MDA) activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, while increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in colonal tissues. Additionally, COP downmodulated the proteic expressions of thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), apoptosis-associated speck-like protein (ASC), caspase-1, IL-1β and IL-18. Enteric microbiome sequencing displayed that DSS and COP tremendously influenced the constitution and diversity of enteric microbes in DSS-elicited UC murines. Besides, COP elevated the abundance of probiotic bacteria Bacteroidota, Akkermansia_muciniphila and Bacteroides_acidifaciens, lowered the proportions of potential pathogenic bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae, Acetatifactor_muris, Clostridium_XlVa, Alistipes and Oscillibacter, and reduced the ratio of Bacillota/Bacteroidota, which vastly helped to reverse the enteric microbiome to a balanceable condition. Alterations in these bacteria were strongly correlated with the colitis relative index.

CONCLUSION

The mechanism of COP against UC is connected with the suppression of TXNIP/NLRP3 inflammasome signalling pathway and the adjustment of the enteric microbiome profiles. The proofs offer new understandings upon the anti-UC function of COP, which might be a prospective candidate against UC.

Inactivation of CYP2D6 by Berberrubine and the Chemical Mechanism

Berberrubine (BRB), belonging to the benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, is a main metabolite of berberine in vivo. BRB was previously proven to undergo metabolic activation mediated by P450s. In this study, the chemical interactions between BRB and CYP2D6 enzyme were investigated. First, a variety of P450s participated in the metabolism of berberine transformed to BRB, but CYP2D6 was the most involved enzyme. A time-, concentration-, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)-dependent inhibition of CYP2D6 was caused by BRB. The inhibitory effect of BRB on CYP2D6 was irreversible. The maximum reaction rate constants of inactivation (kinact) and half-maximal inactivation (KI) of BRB on CYP2D6 were 0.0410 min-1 and 3.798 μM, respectively. Metoprolol, a classic substrate of CYP2D6, attenuated CYP2D6 from inactivation by BRB. Glutathione (GSH) and catalase/superoxide dismutase failed to protect against the inactivation of CYP2D6 caused by BRB. Three cys-based adducts derived from the reaction of electrophilic metabolites of BRB with CYP2D6 were detected by ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS)/MS. The reactive metabolites derived from BRB might be responsible for the inactivation of CYP2D6. In summary, BRB was characterized as a mechanism-based inactivator of CYP2D6.

Acceptable daily intake of aspartame aggravates enteritis pathology and systemic inflammation in colitis mouse model

In this study, a dextran sodium sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis model in C57BL/6 mice was used to explore the effect of acceptable daily intake (ADI) of aspartame on inflammation in colonic tissues. The effects of aspartame on the inflammatory state of the colon in mice were comprehensively evaluated by comparing the body weight, colon length/colon length index, splenic index, disease activity index (DAI) score, histological activity index (HAI) score, the expression levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, claudin-3, and occludin, the infiltration characteristics of macrophage and neutrophil and the composition of the gut microbiota in the control group, aspartame group, ulcerative colitis model group, and aspartame + ulcerative colitis group. We demonstrated that, in a mouse model of dextran sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis, ADI of aspartame caused a significant decrease in body weight, colon length/colon length index, DAI scores, and expression levels of the proteins claudin-3 and occludin. Moreover, ADI of aspartame caused an increase in the splenic index, HAI scores, the levels of proinflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 both in intestinal tissue and serum and infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils in colon tissues. These results showed that ADI of aspartame promoted intestinal pathology and systemic inflammation in a mouse model of colitis.

Lycorine ameliorates liver steatosis, oxidative stress, ferroptosis and intestinal homeostasis imbalance in MASLD mice

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common liver disease worldwide and few drugs are available for its treatment. Lycorine has effective anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects, but the impact on MASLD is not fully understood. In this study, we intend to test the intervention effect of lycorine on MASLD.

METHODS

A MASLD mouse model was constructed on a high-fat diet for 16 weeks, and low, medium, and high doses of lycorine were given by gavage for the last 4 weeks. Detecting indicators related to liver steatosis, oxidative stress, and ferroptosis. In vivo and in vitro experiments co-validate potential targets identified by network pharmacology, molecular docking and western blot for lycorine intervention in MASLD liver. A combination of pathology, western blot, qRT-PCR, and 16 S rRNA sequencing verified adipose tissue and intestinal alterations.

RESULTS

Lycorine ameliorated hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress and ferroptosis in MASLD mice by inhibiting the expression of phosphorylated EGFR, inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. We also observed a dose-dependent effect of lycorine to improve some of the indicators of MASLD. In vitro, knockdown of EGFR significantly attenuated palmitic acid-induced hepatocyte steatosis. In addition, lycorine promoted WAT browning for thermogenesis and energy consumption, affected the composition of intestinal flora, improved the intestinal barrier, and reduced intestinal inflammation.

CONCLUSIONS

EGFR was the target of lycorine intervention in MASLD. Lycorine ameliorated hepatic steatosis, oxidative stress and ferroptosis by affecting the EGFR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in MASLD mice. Furthermore, lycorine promoted WAT browning and ameliorated intestinal homeostatic imbalance. The above effects may also have dose-dependent effects.

Oxyberberine Inhibits Hepatic Gluconeogenesis via AMPK-Mediated Suppression of FoxO1 and CRTC2 Signaling Axes

Oxyberberine (OBB), a natural metabolite of berberine, has been shown to exhibit inhibitory effects on gluconeogenesis in our previous work. This work was designed to investigate the potential effects and underlying mechanisms of OBB on hepatic gluconeogenesis. Our work found that OBB significantly inhibited the expressions of glucose 6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and decreased the glucose production in palmitic acid-induced HepG2 cells. Then, AMPK/Akt/FoxO1 and AMPK/CRTC2 signaling pathways were confirmed by transcriptomics and network pharmacology analyses. It was shown that AMPK activation may phosphorylate and promote nuclear exclusion of FoxO1 and CRTC2, two key regulators of hepatic gluconeogenesis transcriptional pathways, resulting in the inhibition of gluconeogenesis under OBB administration. Afterwards, AMPK/Akt/FoxO1, AMPK/CRTC2 signaling pathways were evidenced by western blot, immunoprecipitation and confocal immunofluorescence, and the targeted inhibitor (Compound C) and siRNA of AMPK were applied for further mechanism verification. Moreover, it was found that OBB treatment activated AMPK/Akt/FoxO1 and AMPK/CRTC2 signaling pathways to decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis in db/db mice. Similarly, the in vivo inhibitory effects of OBB on gluconeogenesis were also diminished by AMPK inhibition. Our work demonstrated that OBB can inhibit hepatic gluconeogenesis in vitro and in vivo, and its underlying mechanisms were associated with AMPK-mediated suppression of FoxO1 and CRTC2 signaling axes.

The ethanolic extract of domesticated Amauroderma rugosum alleviated DSS-induced ulcerative colitis via repairing the intestinal barrier

Amauroderma rugosum (Blume and T. Nees) Torrend (Ganodermataceae) (A. rugosum) has been found to have anti-inflammatory ability in previous studies. The present study aimed to verify the therapeutic benefits of A. rugosum in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and to investigate its underlying mechanism of action. Acute experimental ulcerative colitis was induced by feeding the mice drinking water supplemented with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). The findings indicated that the ethanolic extract of domesticated A. rugosum exhibited therapeutic efficacy comparable to Salazosulfapyridine (SASP) in mitigating clinical symptoms and the pathological score of the colon. Furthermore, A. rugosum exhibited the capacity to enhance the expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins, while concurrently decreasing the levels of TNF-ɑ and IL-6. A noteworthy finding is that it exhibited the capability to diminish the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. In conclusion, A. rugosum attenuates DSS-induced ulcerative colitis by enhancing intestinal barrier function and inhibiting mucosal inflammation.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-024-01565-5.

Anti-inflammatory effects of para-quinone methide derivatives on ulcerative colitis

A series of para-quinone methide derivatives were evaluated their anti-inflammatory activity. Through the screening of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory cell model in Raw264.7 cells, it was found that the inhibitory activity of meta-substituted derivatives on NO production was superior to that of ortho- and para-substituted derivatives. Among them, in the inflammatory cell model, the meta-trifluoromethyl substituted para-quinone methide derivative 1i had the best activity in inhibiting LPS-induced excess generation of NO. And 1i could effectively inhibit the increase of ROS in inflammatory cells, the expression of iNOS related to the production of NO, and the expressions of inflammation related initiating protein TLR4, pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, inflammasome NLRP3 and Caspase1. In the dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mouse model, the active derivative 1i could inhibit DSS-induced colon shortening, and reverse DSS-induced pathological changes in colon tissue, such as inflammatory infiltration, structural destruction and crypt disappearance. 1i could effectively inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in UC mice. Moreover, through the determination of serum biochemical indicators, tissue pathologies and tissue organ indexes, 1i could effectively reverse the damage to mouse liver and kidney caused by DSS, playing a protective role in liver and kidney of mice. In summary, 1i was an effective anti-inflammatory reagent and could be developed as a potential drug for anti-UC.

A Dual Therapeutic Approach to Diabetes Mellitus via Bioactive Phytochemicals Found in a Poly Herbal Extract by Restoration of Favorable Gut Flora and Related Short-Chain Fatty Acids

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a metabolic and endocrine condition, poses a serious threat to human health and longevity. The emerging role of gut microbiome associated with bioactive compounds has recently created a new hope for DM treatment. UHPLC-HRMS methods were used to identify these compounds in a poly herbal ethanolic extract (PHE). The effects of PHE on body weight (BW), fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, gut microbiota, fecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production, and the correlation between DM-related indices and gut microbes, in rats were investigated. Chebulic acid (0.368%), gallic acid (0.469%), andrographolide (1.304%), berberine (6.442%), and numerous polysaccharides were the most representative constituents in PHE. A more significant BW gain and a reduction in FBG level towards normal of PHE 600 mg/kg treated rats group were resulted at the end of 28th days of the study. Moreover, the composition of the gut microbiota corroborated the study's hypothesis, as evidenced by an increased ratio of Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes and some beneficial microbial species, including Prevotella copri and Lactobacillus hamster. The relative abundance of Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, Ruminococcus bromii, and Blautia producta was found to decline in PHE treatment groups as compared to diabetic group. The abundance of beneficial bacteria in PHE 600 mg/kg treatment group was concurrently associated with increased SCFAs concentrations of acetate and propionate (7.26 nmol/g and 4.13 nmol/g). The findings of this study suggest a promising approach to prevent DM by demonstrating that these naturally occurring compounds decreased FBG levels by increasing SCFAs content and SCFAs producing gut microbiota.

Traditional Chinese medicine for functional gastrointestinal disorders and inflammatory bowel disease: narrative review of the evidence and potential mechanisms involving the brain-gut axis

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are common clinical disorders characterized by recurrent diarrhea and abdominal pain. Although their pathogenesis has not been fully clarified, disruptions in intestinal motility and immune function are widely accepted as contributing factors to both conditions, and the brain-gut axis plays a key role in these processes. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) employs a holistic approach to treatment, considers spleen and stomach impairments and liver abnormality the main pathogenesis of these two diseases, and offers a unique therapeutic strategy that targets these interconnected pathways. Clinical evidence shows the great potential of TCM in treating FGIDs and IBD. This study presents a systematic description of the pathological mechanisms of FGIDs and IBD in the context of the brain-gut axis, discusses clinical and preclinical studies on TCM and acupuncture for the treatment of these diseases, and summarizes TCM targets and pathways for the treatment of FGIDs and IBD, integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary biomedical insights. The alleviating effects of TCM on FGID and IBD symptoms are mainly mediated through the modulation of intestinal immunity and inflammation, sensory transmission, neuroendocrine-immune network, and microbiota and their metabolism through brain-gut axis mechanisms. TCM may be a promising treatment option in controlling FGIDs and IBD; however, further high-quality research is required. This review provides a reference for an in-depth exploration of the interventional effects and mechanisms of TCM in FGIDs and IBD, underscoring TCM's potential to recalibrate the dysregulated brain-gut axis in FGIDs and IBD.

Recent developments and new directions in the use of natural products for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a significant global health challenge, and there is an urgent need to explore novel therapeutic interventions. Natural products have demonstrated highly promising effectiveness in the treatment of IBD.

PURPOSE

This study systematically reviews the latest research advancements in leveraging natural products for IBD treatment.

METHODS

This manuscript strictly adheres to the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant literature on the effects of natural products on IBD was retrieved from the PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases using the search terms "natural product," "inflammatory bowel disease," "colitis," "metagenomics", "target identification", "drug delivery systems", "polyphenols," "alkaloids," "terpenoids," and so on. The retrieved data were then systematically summarized and reviewed.

RESULTS

This review assessed the different effects of various natural products, such as polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, quinones, and others, in the treatment of IBD. While these natural products offer promising avenues for IBD management, they also face challenges in terms of clinical translation and drug discovery. The advent of metagenomics, single-cell sequencing, target identification techniques, drug delivery systems, and other cutting-edge technologies heralds a new era in overcoming these challenges.

CONCLUSION

This paper provides an overview of current research progress in utilizing natural products for the treatment of IBD, exploring how contemporary technological innovations can aid in discovering and harnessing bioactive natural products for the treatment of IBD.

The mechanism of bile acid metabolism regulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory response in T2DM through the gut-liver axis

Aims

The main objective of this study was to analyze the changes of intestinal microflora and how bile acid metabolic pathways affect lipid metabolism in T2DM through the gut-liver axis.

Methods

Firstly, 16S rRNA sequencing, metabolomics and transcriptomic sequencing were performed on plasma and feces of clinical subjects to determine the changes of intestinal flora and its metabolites. Finally, T2DM mice model was verified in vivo.

Results

T2DM patients have significant intestinal flora metabolism disorders. The differential fecal metabolites were mainly enriched in primary bile acid biosynthesis and cholesterol metabolism pathways in T2DM patients. After verification, the changes in gut microbiota and metabolites in T2DM patients (including up-regulated bacteria associated with BA metabolism, such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterial, and down-regulated bacteria capable of producing SCFAs such as Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Romboutsia and Roseburia); and the changes in the flora and metabolites that result in impairment of intestinal barrier function and changes of protein expression in the blood, intestine and liver of T2DM patients (including FGFR4↑, TRPM5↑ and CYP27A1↓, which are related to BA and lipid metabolism homeostasis, and TLR6↑, MYD88↑ and NF-κB↑, which are related to inflammatory response). These aspects together contribute to the development of further disorders of glucolipid metabolism and systemic inflammation in T2DM patients.

Conclusions

Changes in intestinal flora and its metabolites may affect lipid metabolism and systemic inflammatory response in T2DM patients through the gut-liver axis mediated by bile acids.

Suppression of colon cancer growth by berberine mediated by the intestinal microbiota and the suppression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs)

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the regulatory effect of berberine (BBR) on the intestinal microbiota and related epigenetics during the inhibition of colon cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. We used a nude mouse xenograft model with HT29 colon cancer cells to establish and divide into a model group and BBR group. The mice were treated for four weeks, and HT29 cells in the BBR group were cultured for 48 h. Cetuximab and the DNA transmethylase (DNMT) inhibitor 5-AZA-dC were added to HT29 cells. Tumour volume and weight were measured by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining for histopathological observation. Mouse faeces were collected, and the gut microbiota was analysed with 16S rDNA amplicons. The levels of cytokines in the supernatant of HT29 cells were measured by ELISA. A CCK-8 kit was used to examine the proliferation of HT29 cells, and RT‒PCR was used to measure the levels of c-Myc, DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B. We found that BBR reduced the growth of colon cancer cells to a certain extent in vitro and in vivo, although the difference was not statistically significant compared with that in the model group. BBR significantly mediated the abundance, composition and metabolic functions of the intestinal microbial flora in mice with colon cancer. The effect of BBR on inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, FGF, and PDGF, was not obvious, but BBR significantly downregulated IL-10 levels (P < 0.05) and reduced c-Myc, DNMT1, and DNMT3B levels (P < 0.05). Inhibiting DNMTs with 5-AZA-dC significantly suppressed the proliferation of HT29 cells, which was consistent with the effect of BBR. The inhibitory effect of berberine on colon cancer is related not only to the intestinal microbiota and its metabolic functions but also to the regulation of DNMTs.

Water-Soluble Se-Containing Proteins from Chicken Alleviate DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice via Inhibiting TLR4/MyD88 Pathway and Protecting the Goblet Cell Pathway

The influence of water-soluble selenium-containing proteins (WSSeP) in chicken on ulcerative colitis (UC) is not known. This work aims to investigate the effect of two WSSeP including h-Se with 1.78 μg Se/g and l-Se with 1.04 μg Se/g on mice UC induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) versus 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Seventy C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into seven groups: groups 1 and 7 were given normal saline. Group 2 to group 4 were administrated orally 500, 1500, and 3000 mg/kg/day h-Se, respectively. Group 5 was given 1500 mg/kg/day l-Se as the control of group 3. From day 14 to day 21, groups 2 to 7 were fed with 3% DSS. Synchronously, group 6 was fed with 150 mg/kg/day 5-ASA. On day 21, the disease activity index, colon length, the histopathological changes, the expressions of claudin-1, occludin, ZO-1, TLR4, and MyD88 in colons, the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), and antioxidant markers (LPS, GSH-Px, SOD, MDA) in serum were determined. WSSeP can effectively improve the damages of DSS to the colon, thymus, and spleen, which present protein and Se dose-dependent. 1.50 g h-Se dose can significantly promote the expression levels of claudin-1, occludin, and ZO-1, to surround crypt gland and goblet and epithelial cells and inhibit the attack of DSS, suppress TLR4/MyD88 pathway, decrease the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, LPS, and MDA, and increase the activities of GSH-Px and SOD, which are better than those of 5-ASA. Therefore, WSSeP would be a natural and potential anti-inflammatory agent for UC.

Integrative analysis of metabolomics and proteomics reveals mechanism of berberrubine-induced nephrotoxicity

Berberrubine (BRB), a main metabolite of berberine, has stronger hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering activity than its parent form. We previously found that BRB could cause obvious nephrotoxicity, but the molecular mechanism involved remains unknown. In this study, we systematically integrated metabolomics and quantitative proteomics to reveal the potential mechanism of nephrotoxicity caused by BRB. Metabolomic analysis revealed that 103 significant- differentially metabolites were changed. Among the mentioned compounds, significantly upregulated metabolites were observed for phosphorylcholine, sn-glycerol-3-phosphoethanolamine, and phosphatidylcholine. The top three enriched KEGG pathways were the mTOR signaling pathway, central carbon metabolism in cancer, and choline metabolism in cancer. ERK1/2 plays key roles in all three metabolic pathways. To further confirm the main signaling pathways involved, a proteomic analysis was conducted to screen for key proteins (such as Mapk1, Mapk14, and Caspase), indicating the potential involvement of cellular growth and apoptosis. Moreover, combined metabolomics and proteomics analyses revealed the participation of ERK1/2 in multiple metabolic pathways. These findings indicated that ERK1/2 regulated the significant- differentially abundant metabolites determined via metabolomics analysis. Notably, through a cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) and molecular docking, ERK1/2 were revealed to be the direct binding target involved in BRB-induced nephrotoxicity. To summarize, this study sheds light on the understanding of severe nephrotoxicity caused by BRB and provides scientific basis for its safe use and rational development.

Berberine inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory macrophage M1 polarization to accelerate peripheral nerve regeneration

Berberine (BBR) has demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory effects by modulating macrophage polarization. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms through which berberine regulates post-injury inflammation within the peripheral nerve system remain elusive. This study seeks to elucidate the role of BBR and its underlying mechanisms in inflammation following peripheral nerve injury (PNI). Adult male C57BL/6J mice subjected to PNI were administered daily doses of berberine (0, 60, 120, 180, 240 ​mg/kg) via gavage from day 1 through day 28. Evaluation of the sciatic function index (SFI) and paw withdrawal threshold revealed that BBR dose-dependently enhanced both motor and sensory functions. Immunofluorescent staining for anti-myelin basic protein (anti-MBP) and anti-neurofilament-200 (anti-NF-200), along with histological staining comprising hematoxylin-eosin (HE), luxol fast blue (LFB), and Masson staining, demonstrated that BBR dose-dependently promoted structural regeneration. Molecular analyses including qRT-PCR, Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and immunofluorescence confirmed that inactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome by MCC950 shifted macrophages from the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype to the anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype, while also impeding macrophage infiltration. Furthermore, BBR significantly downregulated the expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated molecules in macrophages, thereby mitigating NLRP3 inflammasome activation-induced macrophage M1 polarization and inflammation. In summary, BBR's neuroprotective effects were concomitant with the suppression of inflammation after PNI, achieved through the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activation-induced macrophage M1 polarization.

Unraveling the enigma: Molecular mechanisms of berberrubine-induced nephrotoxicity reversed by its parent form berberine

BACKGROUND

Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid that is extensively applied in the clinic due to its potential therapeutic effects on dysentery and infectious diarrhoea. Its main metabolite, berberrubine, a promising candidate for ameliorating hyperlipidaemia, has garnered more attention than berberine. However, our study revealed that berberrubine induces severe kidney damage, while berberine was proven to be safe.

PURPOSE

Herein, we explored the opposite biological effects of these two compounds on the kidney and elucidated their underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

First, integrated metabolomic and proteomic analyses were conducted to identify relevant signalling pathways. Second, a click chemistry method combined with a cellular thermal shiftassay, a drug affinity responsive target stability assay, and microscale thermophoresis were used to identify the direct target proteins. Moreover, a mutation experiment was performed to study the specific binding sites.

RESULTS

Animal studies showed that berberrubine, but not berberine, induced severe chronic, subchronic, and acute nephrotoxicity. More importantly, berberine reversed the berberrubine-reduced nephrotoxicity. The results indicated that the cPLA2 signalling pathway was highly involved in the nephrotoxicity induced by berberrubine. We further confirmed that the direct target of berberrubine is the BASP1 protein (an upstream factor of cPLA2 signalling). Moreover, berberine alleviated nephrotoxicity by binding cPLA2 and inhibiting cPLA2 activation.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to revel the opposite biological effects of berberine and its metabolite berberrubine in inducing kidney injury. Berberrubine, but not berberine, shows strong nephrotoxicity. The cPLA2 signalling pathway can be activated by berberrubine through targeting of BASP1, while berberine inhibits this pathway by directly binding with cPLA2. Our study paves the way for studies on the exact molecular targets of herbal ingredients. We also demonstrated that natural small molecules and their active metabolites can have opposite regulatory roles in vivo through the same signalling pathway.

Gut microbiota: a superior operator for dietary phytochemicals to improve atherosclerosis

Mounting evidence implicates the gut microbiota as a possible key susceptibility factor for atherosclerosis (AS). The employment of dietary phytochemicals that strive to target the gut microbiota has gained scientific support for treating AS. This study conducted a general overview of the links between the gut microbiota and AS, and summarized available evidence that dietary phytochemicals improve AS via manipulating gut microbiota. Then, the microbial metabolism of several dietary phytochemicals was summarized, along with a discussion on the metabolites formed and the biotransformation pathways involving key gut bacteria and enzymes. This study additionally focused on the anti-atherosclerotic potential of representative metabolites from dietary phytochemicals, and investigated their underlying molecular mechanisms. In summary, microbiota-dependent dietary phytochemical therapy is a promising strategy for AS management, and knowledge of "phytochemical-microbiota-biotransformation" may be a breakthrough in the search for novel anti-atherogenic agents.

Enhancing hepatoprotective action: oxyberberine amorphous solid dispersion system targeting TLR4

Oxyberberine (OBB) is a significant natural compound, with excellent hepatoprotective properties. However, the poor water solubility of OBB hinders its release and absorption thus resulting in low bioavailability. To overcome these drawbacks of OBB, amorphous spray-dried powders (ASDs) of OBB were formulated. The dissolution, characterizations, and pharmacokinetics of OBB-ASDs formulation were investigated, and its hepatoprotective action was disquisitive in the D-GalN/LPS-induced acute liver injury (ALI) mouse model. The characterizations of OBB-ASDs indicated that the crystalline form of OBB active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) was changed into an amorphous form in OBB-ASDs. More importantly, OBB-ASDs showed a higher bioavailability than OBB API. In addition, OBB-ASDs treatment restored abnormal histopathological changes, improved liver functions, and relieved hepatic inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress in ALI mice. The spray drying techniques produced an amorphous form of OBB, which could significantly enhance the bioavailability and exhibit excellent hepatoprotective effects, indicating that the OBB-ASDs can exhibit further potential in hepatoprotective drug delivery systems. Our results provide guidance for improving the bioavailability and pharmacological activities of other compounds, especially insoluble natural compounds. Meanwhile, the successful development of OBB-ASDs could shed new light on the research process of poorly soluble medicine.

Deciphering the shared mechanisms of Gegen Qinlian Decoction in treating type 2 diabetes and ulcerative colitis via bioinformatics and machine learning

Background

Although previous clinical studies and animal experiments have demonstrated the efficacy of Gegen Qinlian Decoction (GQD) in treating Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), the underlying mechanisms of its therapeutic effects remain elusive.

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the shared pathogenic mechanisms between T2DM and UC and elucidate the mechanisms through which GQD modulates these diseases using bioinformatics approaches.

Methods

Data for this study were sourced from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Targets of GQD were identified using PharmMapper and SwissTargetPrediction, while targets associated with T2DM and UC were compiled from the DrugBank, GeneCards, Therapeutic Target Database (TTD), DisGeNET databases, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Our analysis encompassed six approaches: weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), immune infiltration analysis, single-cell sequencing analysis, machine learning, DEG analysis, and network pharmacology.

Results

Through GO and KEGG analysis of weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) modular genes and DEGs intersection, we found that the co-morbidity between T2DM and UC is primarily associated with immune-inflammatory pathways, including IL-17, TNF, chemokine, and toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Immune infiltration analysis supported these findings. Three distinct machine learning studies identified IGFBP3 as a biomarker for GQD in treating T2DM, while BACE2, EPHB4, and EPHA2 emerged as biomarkers for GQD in UC treatment. Network pharmacology revealed that GQD treatment for T2DM and UC mainly targets immune-inflammatory pathways like Toll-like receptor, IL-17, TNF, MAPK, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways.

Conclusion

This study provides insights into the shared pathogenesis of T2DM and UC and clarifies the regulatory mechanisms of GQD on these conditions. It also proposes novel targets and therapeutic strategies for individuals suffering from T2DM and UC.

Supersaturated Drug Delivery System of Oxyberberine Based on Cyclodextrin Nanoaggregates: Preparation, Characterization, and in vivo Application

Propose

Oxyberberine (OBB), one of the main metabolites of berberine derived from intestinal and erythrocyte metabolism, exhibits appreciable anti-hyperuricemic activity. However, the low water solubility and poor plasma concentration-effect relationship of OBB hamper its development and utilization. Therefore, an OBB-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) supersaturated drug delivery system (SDDS) was prepared and characterized in this work.

Methods

OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS was prepared using the ultrasonic-solvent evaporation method and characterized. Additionally, the in vitro and in vivo release experiments were conducted to assess the release kinetics of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS. Subsequently, the therapeutic efficacy of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS on hyperuricemia (HUA) was investigated by means of histopathological examination and evaluation of relevant biomarkers.

Results

The results of FT-IR, DSC, PXRD, NMR and molecular modeling showed that the crystallized form of OBB was transformed into an amorphous OBB-HP-β-CD complex. Dynamic light scattering indicated that this system was relatively stable and maintained by formation of nanoaggregates with an average diameter of 23 nm. The dissolution rate of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS was about 5 times higher than that of OBB raw material. Furthermore, the AUC0-t of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS (10.882 μg/mL*h) was significantly higher than that of the raw OBB counterpart (0.701 μg/mL*h). The oral relative bioavailability of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS was also enhanced by 16 times compared to that of the raw material. Finally, in vivo pharmacodynamic assay showed the anti-hyperuricemic potency of OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS was approximately 5-10 times higher than that of OBB raw material.

Conclusion

Based on our findings above, OBB-HP-β-CD SDDS proved to be an excellent drug delivery system for increasing the solubility, dissolution, bioavailability, and anti-hyperuricemic potency of OBB.

Berberine inhibits SGIV replication by suppressing inflammatory response and oxidative stress

Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) is one of the major infectious diseases responsible for high mortality and huge economic losses in the grouper aquaculture industry. Berberine (BBR), a naturally occurring plant alkaloid, is a phytochemical having a variety of biological properties, such as antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. In this work, we used an in vitro model based on Western blot, ROS fluorescence probe, and real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) to examine the antiviral qualities of BBR against SGIV. The outcomes demonstrated that varying BBR concentrations could significantly inhibit the replication of SGIV. In addition, BBR greatly inhibited the production of genes associated with pro-inflammatory cytokines in SGIV-infected or SGIV-uninfected GS cells based on qRT-PCR data. Subsequent investigations demonstrated that BBR suppressed the expression of the promoter activity of NF-κB and NF-κB-p65 protein. Additionally, BBR reduced the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2, JNK, and p38. Furthermore, BBR also inhibits SGIV-induced ROS production by upregulating the expression of antioxidant-related genes. In conclusion, BBR is a viable therapy option for SGIV infection due to its antiviral properties.

Berberine: Potential preventive and therapeutic strategies for human colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common digestive tract tumor, with incidences continuing to rise. Although modern medicine has extended the survival time of CRC patients, its adverse effects and the financial burden cannot be ignored. CRC is a multi-step process and can be caused by the disturbance of gut microbiome and chronic inflammation's stimulation. Additionally, the presence of precancerous lesions is also a risk factor for CRC. Consequently, scientists are increasingly interested in identifying multi-target, safe, and economical herbal medicine and natural products. This paper summarizes berberine's (BBR) regulatory mechanisms in the occurrence and development of CRC. The findings indicate that BBR regulates gut microbiome homeostasis and controls mucosal inflammation to prevent CRC. In the CRC stage, BBR inhibits cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, blocks the cell cycle, induces cell apoptosis, regulates cell metabolism, inhibits angiogenesis, and enhances chemosensitivity. BBR plays a role in the overall management of CRC. Therefore, using BBR as an adjunct to CRC prevention and treatment could become a future trend in oncology.

MyD88 and Its Inhibitors in Cancer: Prospects and Challenges

The interplay between the immune system and cancer underscores the central role of immunotherapy in cancer treatment. In this context, the innate immune system plays a critical role in preventing tumor invasion. Myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) is crucial for innate immunity, and activation of MyD88 promotes the production of inflammatory cytokines and induces infiltration, polarization, and immune escape of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, abnormal MyD88 signaling induces tumor cell proliferation and metastasis, which are closely associated with poor prognosis. Therefore, MyD88 could serve as a novel tumor biomarker and is a promising target for cancer therapy. Current strategies targeting MyD88 including inhibition of signaling pathways and protein multimerization, have made substantial progress, especially in inflammatory diseases and chronic inflammation-induced cancers. However, the specific role of MyD88 in regulating tumor immunity and tumorigenic mechanisms remains unclear. Therefore, this review describes the involvement of MyD88 in tumor immune escape and disease therapy. In addition, classical and non-classical MyD88 inhibitors were collated to provide insights into potential cancer treatment strategies. Despite several challenges and complexities, targeting MyD88 is a promising avenue for improving cancer treatment and has the potential to revolutionize patient outcomes.

Mitigation of inflammatory bowel disease-related osteoporosis by oxyberberine: Insights into the RANKL/NF-κB signaling pathway

Inflammatory bowel disease is linked to a higher occurrence of bone loss. Oxyberberine can effectively improve experimental inflammatory bowel disease. However, no study has shown the effect of oxyberberine on inflammatory bowel disease induced bone loss. The present study was performed to investigate the role of oxyberberine in inflammatory bowel disease induced osteoporosis in chronic inflammatory bowel disease mice model. The inflammatory bowel disease mice were orally given two doses of oxyberberine daily. Blood, colon, and bone specimens were collected for biomarker assessments and histological examinations. Bone biomechanical properties and key proteins and genes involved in the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand/nuclear factor kappa-B signaling pathway were evaluated. Additionally, the binding characteristics of oxyberberine and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand were evaluated by in silico simulation. Results indicated that oxyberberine treatment significantly attenuated the macroscopic damage, colonic shortening, and histological injury from the colon. Furthermore, oxyberberine decreased serum inflammatory cytokine levels. The intervention with oxyberberine significantly mitigated the deterioration of bone mass, biomechanical properties, and microstructural parameters. Moreover, the upregulated osteoclast formation factors in model mice were significantly abolished by oxyberberine. In silico simulation results also showed that oxyberberine was firmly bound with target protein. Hence, our findings indicated that oxyberberine had the potential to mitigate inflammatory bowel disease induced inflammation in bone, inhibit osteoclast formation through regulating the receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand/nuclear factor kappa-B signaling pathway, and might be a valuable approach in preventing bone loss associated with inflammatory bowel disease.

Orally Administered Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 Alleviates DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice by Restoring the Intestinal Barrier and Inhibiting the TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB Pathway via Intestinal Microbiota Modulation

Oral ingestion of probiotics is a promising approach to relieving inflammatory disease through regulating the gut microbiota. A newly discovered strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus CY12 (LCY12), obtained from cattle-yak milk, displayed numerous probiotic properties. These included enhanced viability in low pH and bile environments, adhesion capabilities, and potent antimicrobial effects. The research aimed to explore the beneficial impacts of the novel LCY12 strain on colitis in mice induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. The results of the study showed that administration of LCY12 effectively helped to reduce the negative effects of DSS-induced body weight loss, disease activity index score, colon length shortening, loss of goblet cells, and overall histopathological scores in the intestines. Simultaneously, LCY12 administration significantly alleviated intestinal inflammation and safeguarded intestinal barrier integrity by enhancing IL-10 levels, while dampening IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α production. Additionally, LCY12 boosted the presence of tight junction proteins. Furthermore, LCY12 hindered the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway by downregulating TLR4 and MyD88 expression, inactivating phosphorylated IκBα, and preventing translocation of NF-κB p65 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. The LCY12 also increased specific intestinal microbial communities and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production. Altogether, LCY12 oral administration alleviated colitis induced with DSS in mice by improving intestinal barrier function and regulating inflammatory cytokines, SCFA production, and intestinal microbiota.

Potential application mechanism of traditional Chinese medicine in treating immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis

Cancer ranks among the foremost causes of mortality worldwide, posing a significant threat to human lives. The advent of tumor immunotherapy has substantially transformed the therapeutic landscape for numerous advanced malignancies, notably non-small cell lung cancer and melanoma. However, as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are increasingly applied in clinical settings, a spectrum of undesired reactions, termed immune-related adverse events (irAEs), has emerged. These adverse reactions are associated with immunotherapy and can result in varying degrees of harm to the human body. Among these reactions, Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis (ICIIC) stands out as one of the most prevalent clinical adverse events. In contemporary times, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in addressing various maladies. Consequently, investigating the potential application and mechanisms of Chinese medicine in countering immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis assumes significant importance in the treatment of this condition.

Sijunzi decoction alleviates inflammation and intestinal epithelial barrier damage and modulates the gut microbiota in ulcerative colitis mice

Ethnopharmacological relevance

As a representative classical prescription, Sijunzi decoction has powerful therapeutic effects on spleen-stomach qi insufficiency. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic, diffuse, and non-specifically inflammatory disorder, the etiology of which still remains unclear. In the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, splenic asthenia is the primary cause of UC. Based on this, Sijunzi decoction has been extensively used in TCM clinical practice to alleviate UC in recent years. However, the pharmacological mechanism of Sijunzi decoction in modern medicine is still not completely clear, which limits its clinical application.

Aim of the study

The purpose of this study was to investigate the Sijunzi decoction's curative effect on acute UC mice and probe into its potential pharmacological mechanism.

Materials and methods

The UC mouse model was set up by freely ingesting a 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) solution. The relieving role of Sijunzi decoction on UC in mice was analyzed by evaluating the changes in clinical parameters, colon morphology, histopathology, inflammatory factor content, intestinal epithelial barrier protein expression level, and gut microbiota balance state. Finally, multivariate statistical analysis was conducted to elucidate the relationship between inflammatory factors, intestinal epithelial barrier proteins, and gut microbiota.

Results

First, the research findings revealed that Sijunzi decoction could visibly ease the clinical manifestation of UC, lower the DAI score, and attenuate colonic damage. Moreover, Sijunzi decoction could also significantly inhibit IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α while increasing occludin and ZO-1 expression levels. Subsequently, further studies showed that Sijunzi decoction could remodel gut microbiota homeostasis. Sijunzi decoction was beneficial in regulating the levels of Alistipes, Akkermansia, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and other bacteria. Finally, multivariate statistical analysis demonstrated that key gut microbes were closely associated with inflammatory factors and intestinal epithelial barrier proteins.

Conclusion

Sijunzi decoction can significantly prevent and treat UC. Its mechanism is strongly associated with the improvement of inflammation and intestinal epithelial barrier damage by regulating the gut microbiota.

Exopolysaccharides Produced by Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum YS108R Ameliorates DSS-Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Mice by Improving the Gut Barrier and Regulating the Gut Microbiota

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a major disease that has endangered human health. Our previous study demonstrated that Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum YS108R, a ropy exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing bacterium, could alleviate UC in mice, but it is unclear whether EPS is the key substance responsible for its action. In this study, we proposed to investigate the remitting effect of EPS from B. longum subsp. longum YS108R on UC in a DSS-induced UC mouse model. Water extraction and alcohol precipitation were applied to extract EPS from the supernatant of B. longum subsp. longum YS108R culture. Then the animal trial was performed, and the results indicated that YS108R EPS ameliorated colonic pathological damage and the intestinal barrier. YS108R EPS suppressed inflammation via NF-κB signaling pathway inhibition and attenuated oxidative stress via the Nrf2 signaling pathway activation. Remarkably, YS108R EPS regulated gut microbiota, as evidenced by an increase in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria and a decline in Gram-negative bacteria, resulting in an increase of propionate and butyrate and a reduction of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Collectively, YS108R EPS manipulated the intestinal microbiota and its metabolites, which further improved the intestinal barrier and inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress, thereby alleviating UC.

Oxyberberine sensitizes liver cancer cells to sorafenib via inhibiting NOTCH1-USP7-c-Myc pathway

BACKGROUND

Sorafenib is the first-line therapy for patients with advanced-stage HCC, but its clinical cure rate is unsatisfactory due to adverse reactions and drug resistance. Novel alternative strategies to overcome sorafenib resistance are urgently needed. Oxyberberine (OBB), a major metabolite of berberine in vivo, exhibits potential antitumor potency in various human malignancies, including liver cancer. However, it remains unknown whether and how OBB sensitizes liver cancer cells to sorafenib.

METHODS

Cell viability, trypan blue staining and flow cytometry assays were employed to determine the synergistic effect of OBB and sorafenib on killing HCC cells. PCR, western blot, co-immunoprecipitation and RNA interference assays were used to decipher the mechanism by which OBB sensitizes sorafenib. HCC xenograft models and clinical HCC samples were utilized to consolidate our findings.

RESULTS

We found for the first time that OBB sensitized liver cancer cells to sorafenib, enhancing its inhibitory effect on cell growth and induction of apoptosis in vitro. Interestingly, we observed that OBB enhanced the sensitivity of HCC cells to sorafenib by reducing ubiquitin-specific peptidase 7 (USP7) expression, a well-known tumor-promoting gene. Mechanistically, OBB inhibited notch homolog 1-mediated USP7 transcription, leading to the downregulation of V-Myc avian myelocytomatosis viral oncogene homolog (c-Myc), which synergized with sorafenib to suppress liver cancer. Furthermore, animal results showed that cotreatment with OBB and sorafenib significantly inhibited the tumor growth of liver cancer xenografts in mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that OBB enhances the sensitivity of liver cancer cells to sorafenib through inhibiting notch homolog 1-USP7-c-Myc signaling pathway, which potentially provides a novel therapeutic strategy for liver cancer to improve the effectiveness of sorafenib.

Qingchang Wenzhong Decoction ameliorates intestinal inflammation and intestinal barrier dysfunction in ulcerative colitis via the GC-C signaling pathway

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, chronic inflammatory disorder of the colonic mucosa, accompanied with abdominal pain, and bloody diarrhea. Currently, clinical treatment options for UC are limited. Qingchang Wenzhong Decoction (QCWZD) is an effective prescription of traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of UC. However, the mechanism of QCWZD in alleviating intestinal barrier dysfunction in UC has not been clearly explained.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To determine the mechanism whereby QCWZD promotes the recovery of intestinal barrier dysfunction in UC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A secondary analysis of colonic mucosa from UC patients acquired from a prior RCT clinical trial was performed. The effects of QCWZD on intestinal mucus and mechanical barriers in UC patients were evaluated using colon tissue paraffin-embedded sections from UC patients. The mechanism was further investigated by in vivo and in vitro experiments. UC mice were established in sterile water with 3.0% dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Meanwhile, mice in the treatment group were dosed with QCWZD or mesalazine. In vitro, an intestinal barrier model was constructed using Caco-2 and HT29 cells in co-culture. GC-C plasmid was used to overexpress/knock down GC-C to clarify the target of QCWZD. HE, AB-PAS, ELISA, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assays were used to assess the level of colonic inflammation and intestinal barrier integrity. Rt-qPCR, Western Blot were used to detect the expression of genes and proteins related to GC-C signaling pathway. Molecular docking was used to simulate the binding sites of major components of QCWZD to GC-C.

RESULTS

In UC patients, QCWZD increased mucus secretion, goblet cell number, and promoted MUC2 and ZO-1 expression. QCWZD accelerated the recovery of UC mice from DSS-induced inflammation, including weight gain, reduced disease activity index (DAI) scores, colon length recovery, and histological healing. QCWZD promoted mucus secretion and increased ZO-1 expression in in vivo and in vitro experiments, thereby repairing mucus mechanical barrier damage. The effects of QCWZD are mediated through regulation of the GC-C signaling pathway, which in turn affects CFTR phosphorylation and MUC2 expression to promote mucus secretion, while inhibiting the over-activation of MLCK and repairing tight junctions to maintain the integrity of the mechanical barrier. Molecular docking results demonstrate the binding of the main components of QCWZD to GC-C.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that QCWZD modulates the GC-C signaling pathway to promote remission of mucus-mechanical barrier damage in the UC. The clarification of the mechanism of QCWZD holds promise for the development of new therapies for UC.

2'-Fucosyllactose Promotes Colonization of Akkermansia muciniphila and Prevents Colitis In Vitro and in Mice

Akkermansia muciniphila is a potential candidate for ulcerative colitis prevention. Considering that it utilizes 2'-fucosyllactose (2'FL) for growth, 2'FL can be used to enrich the abundance of A. muciniphila in feces. However, whether the crosswalk between 2'FL and A. muciniphila can promote the intestinal colonization of A. muciniphila remains unclear. In this study, we explored the effect and the underlying mechanism of 2'FL on the colonization of A. muciniphila in vitro and in vivo as well as its alleviating effect on colitis. Our results revealed that 2'FL can serve as a carbon source of A. muciniphila to support the growth and increase cell-surface hydrophobicity and the expression of the genes coding fibronectin-binding autotransporter adhesin to promote the adhesion to Caco2/HT29 methotrexate (MTX) cells but not of galactooligosaccharides (GOS) and glucose. Moreover, 2'FL could increase the host mucin formation to promote the adhesion of A. muciniphila to Caco2/HT29 MTX cells but not of GOS and glucose. Furthermore, 2'FL could significantly increase the colonization of A. muciniphila in the gut to alleviate colitis in mice. Overall, the interplay between A. muciniphila and 2'FL is expected to provide an advantageous ecological niche for A. muciniphila so as to confer further health benefits against colitis.

The triangular relationship between traditional Chinese medicines, intestinal flora, and colorectal cancer

Over the past decade, colorectal cancer has reported a higher incidence in younger adults and a lower mortality rate. Recently, the influence of the intestinal flora in the initiation, progression, and treatment of colorectal cancer has been extensively studied, as well as their positive therapeutic impact on inflammation and the cancer microenvironment. Historically, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been widely used in the treatment of colorectal cancer via promoted cancer cell apoptosis, inhibited cancer metastasis, and reduced drug resistance and side effects. The present research is more on the effect of either herbal medicine or intestinal flora on colorectal cancer. The interactions between TCM and intestinal flora are bidirectional and the combined impacts of TCM and gut microbiota in the treatment of colon cancer should not be neglected. Therefore, this review discusses the role of intestinal bacteria in the progression and treatment of colorectal cancer by inhibiting carcinogenesis, participating in therapy, and assisting in healing. Then the complex anticolon cancer effects of different kinds of TCM monomers, TCM drug pairs, and traditional Chinese prescriptions embodied in apoptosis, metastasis, immune suppression, and drug resistance are summarized separately. In addition, the interaction between TCM and intestinal flora and the combined effect on cancer treatment were analyzed. This review provides a mechanistic reference for the application of TCM and intestinal flora in the clinical treatment of colorectal cancer and paves the way for the combined development and application of microbiome and TCM.

Oxyberberine protects middle cerebral artery occlusion triggered cerebral injury through TLR4/NLRP3 pathway in rats

Cerebral ischemia is a life-threatening health concern that leads to severe neurological complications and fatalities worldwide. Although timely intervention with clot-removing agents curtails serious post-stroke neurological dysfunctions, no effective neuroprotective intervention is available for addressing post-recanalization neuroinflammation. Herein, for the first time we studied the effect of oxyberberine (OBB), a derivative of berberine, on transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-generated neurological consequences in Sprague-Dawley rats. The MCAO-operated rats exhibited significant somatosensory and sensorimotor dysfunctions in adhesive removal, foot fault, paw whisker, and rotarod assays at 1 and 3 days post-surgery. These MCAO-generated neurological deficits were prevented in OBB-treated (50 and 100 mg/kg) rats, and also coincided with a smaller infarct area (in 2,3,5-triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining) and decreased neuronal death (in cresyl violet staining) in the ipsilateral hemisphere of these animals. The immunostaining of neuronal nuclear protein (NeuN) and glial-fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) also echoes the neuroprotective nature of OBB. The increased expression of neuroinflammatory and blood-brain barrier tight junction proteins like toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TRAF-6, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), pNF-κB, nNOS, ASC, and IKBα in the ipsilateral part of MCAO-operated rats were restored to normal following OBB treatment. We also observed the decline in plasma levels/mRNA transcription of TNF-α, IL-1β, NLRP3, IL-6, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 and increased expression of occludin and claudin in OBB-treated rats. These outcomes imply that OBB may prevent the MCAO-induced neurological consequences and neuroinflammation by interfering with TLR4 and NLRP3 signaling in rats.

Alleviative effects of exopolysaccharides from Limosilactobacillus mucosae CCFM1273 against ulcerative colitis via modulation of gut microbiota and inhibition of Fas/Fasl and TLR4/NF-κB pathways

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has become a public health challenge as its global prevalence increases annually. The use of prebiotics in healthcare has grown in recent years. Thus, the present study was designed to explore the alleviating effects and mechanisms of exopolysaccharides (EPS) produced by Limosilactobacillus mucosae CCFM1273 on UC. The results indicated that CCFM1273 EPS mitigated the disease symptoms and colonic pathologic damage in DSS-induced colitis mice. Moreover, CCFM1273 EPS improved the intestinal barrier by restoring goblet cell numbers and MUC2 production, enhancing intercellular junctions, and inhibiting epithelial cell apoptosis. In addition, CCFM1273 EPS inhibited colonic inflammation and oxidative stress. Importantly, CCFM1273 EPS augmented short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) producers, leading to increased levels of SCFAs (especially propionic acid), which inhibited the Fas/Fasl pathway and consequently inhibited epithelial apoptosis, and diminished Gram-negative bacteria, further decreasing lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which suppressed the TLR4/NF-κB pathway and consequently suppressed colonic inflammation, eventually relieving UC in mice. This study provides theoretical support for the use of prebiotics in clinical practice for UC.